Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Today, we gather to unfold the rich tapestry of a well-known parable Jesus shared with his disciples, found in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 25, verses 1 through 13—the Parable of the 10 Virgins. In the glow of our sanctuary, much like the soft flames that lit the path for the virgins, we, too, seek illumination from this parable.
Introduction
Imagine the anticipation that tingles at the thought of a wedding celebration. In Biblical times, weddings were grand events filled with symbolism and tradition, and among these were the ten virgins and maidens tasked with an honorable duty. Their lamps were not mere accessories but vital, radiating the bridegroom's path on his arrival. Jesus' story is not just about wedding customs; it's a mirror for us to peer into, reflecting our readiness for His divine promise.
Main Points
The Preparation of the Virgins:
    Behold, among the virgins, five were wise, carrying flasks of oil alongside their lamps, and five were foolish, only holding lamps without reserves. Here, we unearth the essence of wisdom—a foresight that anticipates the night's drag, embodying a faith that prepares for what's unseen. The extra oil, brothers and sisters, marks the difference between presence in the Kingdom and being left at the doors.
The Waiting Period:
    Night drew its curtain, and as the hours ticked on, the bridegroom was nowhere to be found. The virgins felt the heavy blanket of sleep, their eyelids fluttering like the dying flames of their lamps. This moment is not unlike our spiritual journeys—periods of waiting on the Lord, fighting the slumber of complacency and distraction, as we await His footsteps.
The Arrival of the Bridegroom:
    Then, in the silence, a shout: "Behold, the bridegroom comes!" Ten hearts leaped, and ten lamps flickered. This is the moment of truth, separating those who kept their wicks wet from those who found them dry. The prepared virgins' lamps burn bright, welcoming the bridegroom with warmth and joy. The unprepared scramble in panic, their opportunities like sand slipping through their fingers.
The Doors Closed:
    The foolish virgins plead with their wise counterparts for oil, but the response is frank—their lack of preparation cannot be compensated at the eleventh hour. And so, with the bridegroom's entrance, the door shuts, leaving the unready outside, voices echoing, "Lord, Lord, open to us." Yet, it is too late (as in the days of Noah). The bridegroom declares, "Truly, I say to you, I do not know you."
Conclusion
Fellow believers, this parable rings out a clear message—be prepared, for we know not the hour of the Lord's coming. It reminds us to look within and keep our Spiritual lamps alight with faith, love, and good works, burning steadily so that we may join Him in celebration, not in sorrow, when Christ arrives.
May we take this time to reflect on our readiness, not in fear but in faithful anticipation. Shall we pray for God's guidance to sustain us and keep our lamps filled with steadfast Spirit so that when Our Bridegroom comes, He may find us, not in the darkness of the night but shining brightly, ready to walk with Him through the gates of eternal glory?
Amen.